Forbes Travel Guide performs independent, incognito inspections of all hotels we rate. This is what we paid when we stayed at this hotel.

Rates can vary widely by room type and season. "We Paid" is intended to give a general sense of price, but you might find considerably different rates for your trip.

When we book, we aim for the optimum season for the destination, but we avoid holidays and major public events, when prices are highest. We generally book a room at one category up from the most basic.

We take advantage of promotional rates, when possible. That means the rate you see above might have included other benefits, such as spa or meal credits.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua

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Hawaiian traditions seep into all aspects of The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua. Local plants, flowers, fruits and herbs go into the lotions and oils used in treatments, and distinctly Hawaiian services, like the lomilomi massage, make up a bulk of the menu.

The spa also uses its surroundings to its advantage — spa suites come with garden showers and the alfresco relaxation lounge and whirlpool sit along a taro garden. It’s an authentic Hawaiian haven.

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Our Inspector's Highlights

Tucked up on the fourth floor of the hidden-away Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, the 17,500-square-foot Maui spa invites you to nibble on almonds and yogurt-covered pretzels and sip mango iced tea while you sprawl out on a cushioned chaise lounge in the relaxation room.